Strategic Fund Development: Building Profitable Relationships That Last, Third Edition

Summary

I think of all this as organizational development work. Organizational life is all about organizational development work. Until we recognize this, how can we run effective organizations? Until we accept all this, how can we operate good development programs? We need to change the way we do fund development. We need to change the way we build organizations.

Why bother? Because the reward is a healthy, viable, and effective organization. Because the reward is organizational survival. And finally, because the reward is strong philanthropic organizations that make a difference in their communities.

Maybe you’re an organizational development specialist already. And you’ve defined your philosophy and you’re a leader, too. If so, keep it up and help develop others.

Maybe you want to transform yourself. If yes, go forth and do so. Examine yourself and outline a plan for change. Read this book. Read other books. Find yourself a coach and mentor. Do what it takes.

The best fundraisers are organizational development specialists, not just great fundraising technicians. The best fundraisers must embrace the obligations, the attitude and behaviors, and the knowledge and skills of leaders, too.

If not you, who?